Everyone remembers their first Cirque du Soleil… I was eight and lucky enough to go with my fun (and generous) grandfather who loved treating his grandchildren to amazing experiences. My siblings and I were spellbound. It is a reaction I have heard echoed in my friend’s accounts of their first Cirque productions – many of these friends now work in theatre. There is quite simply nothing like the scale and spectacle of these incredible circus shows.

OVO is the latest Cirque show to grace the epic Royal Albert Hall stage in London. Watching anything in the round is more immersive but for these circus showcases it works particularly well in this format. The show is inspired by the insect world, tiny creatures have been enlarged and exaggerated into other-worldly animalistic acrobats, larger-than-life comedians, dancers and singers.

I loved the contrast of physical, high-energy acts (bouncing and catapulting high into the air) and the quieter more contemplative performances, immaculate contortion and careful balancing tight-rope walkers. As always the balance is beautiful and the narrative gently ties the acts together in a cohesive show that everyone, of any age will enjoy.

Thirty years on from my first Cirque du Soleil and I was back in the auditorium treating my two little boys to their first, exhilarating Cirque experience, what a special, special show to witness once again, but this time with my fascinated little kids in tow.

More information on OVO here.